Saint Cecilia's Day in Mexico (22/11)

St. Cecilia's Day (Fiesta de Santa Cecilia) — is an annual celebration of Mexican musicians — maryachi, now known throughout the world thanks to the film by R. Rodriguez «Desperado» (Desperado). The famous song from this film, by the way, belongs not to the composer’s pen, but to the Mexican people.

In real life, they may not shoot as well, but they sing beautifully. And they prove this every year, gathering on the day of their patron saint Saint Cecilia for the festival. A favorite gathering place for the capital's Maryachi — Garibaldi Square, named after the Italian general Giuseppe Garibaldi.

The Maryachi team consists, as a rule, of 8-9 people. This is defined by a set of tools. In addition to the violin, regular guitar, drums and brass, the ensemble necessarily includes a small guitar «haranita» and a large bass guitar — «guitarron».

Among the Maryachi there are also women. Every year in Mexico they organize a national competition — select the best maryachi with the most beautiful voice. She is proclaimed «ambassador of the year» (Embajadora mariachi del año).

Every year Mexicans prove that they are the most musical nation. Dancing here is a — supporting show (not like flamenco in Spain or tango in Argentina). Mexicans want to listen to songs that make blood boil.

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